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JAN/FEB 2024

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JANUARY 12, 2024

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JAN/FEB 2024 / VOLUME 12 / ISSUE 1

CONTENT 9 Rants & RAVES

FEATURES:

15 SoMinn FASHION

Single in the season of LOVE.

4 Getting Married?

10 Profile of a MINN MUSICIAN

What makes a great wedding venue.

Best local albums 2023.

Fight the Frump: Embracing Trends, Solutions, and a Fashionable Mindset.

22 SoMinn THE BOOKWORM SEZ

- My Name is Barbra - The Kingdom of Sweets - The Lost Tomb and Other Real-Life Stories of Bones, Burials, and Murder - A Very Inconvenient Scandal

11 Through a SoMinn LENS

COLUMNS:

Finding Love in everyday life.

7 Mollywood BLVD

15 SoMinn FOOD & DRINK Review

Are we out the woods?

Where to go on date night.

8 From the MUSIC SIDE

Southern minn

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CALENDAR SoMinn’s most comprehensive calendar of things to be SCENE. PAGE 16

Dessa, my musical soulmate

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The Gardens Pavilion at The Gardens of Castle Rock is the setting of an outdoor wedding. (Submitted photo)

What makes a

in SoMinn By ASHLEY HANLEY Guest Contributor

at wed! 4

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ove is in the air. For those lovebirds in Southern Minnesota and beyond, the area has a variety of unique and traditional venues for the wedding of your dreams. One such place is the Gardens of Castle Rock- a wedding and event venue in Northfield. Glenn Switzer has been the owner and

designer since they opened in 2014. “The Gardens of Castle Rock is more than just one building or space. It is a collection of gardens, landscape structures, and buildings creating an outdoor wedding venue where authentic craftsmanship and the natural environment are at the very center,” Switzer said. Switzer is the third generation to help people incorporate the natural environment into their lives. Close to a century ago, Glenn’s grandfather owned a nursery business on the property. Glenn’s father later joined the business

Bhargavi and Nick get married at The Gardens of Castle Rock. (Submitted photo)

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as a landscape architect adding landscape design services. At an early age, Glenn joined the nursery and landscape business leading him into a 30+ year career of designing and creating beautiful outdoor environments through landscape design and construction. In 2012, a friend of Glenn’s was looking for a place to hold an outdoor wedding. Half-jokingly, Glenn offered his friend the opportunity to get married at the nursery. The rest is history. Currently, The Gardens of Castle Rock host 60 weddings and events from early May until the end of October. “Each year, preparations for the upcoming wedding season are done in November through April. This includes new construction or remodeling projects, revisions to processes, hiring of event staff, building vendor partnerships, and strengthening marketing methods,” Switzer said. Switzer said couples who choose The Gardens of Castle Rock are looking for the ability to create a wedding day that is uniquely theirs. “With four ceremony sites, open catering, the ability to bring your own alcohol, numerous table and chair options, and having the entire venue for the entire day just to themselves, no two weddings have ever been the same at The Gardens,” Switzer said. “If couples are looking to book during prime season we recommend booking at least 18 months before the event date. June, September and October are very popular wedding months, especially in Minnesota. If couples are looking to book during the standard season (May, July & Aug), we recommend between 6-12 months before the event date. Since The Gardens only hosts one event per day, if there is a specific date a couple wants, it is never too early to book.” On the wedding day, couples are assigned a Set-Up Lead from The Gardens who works with the couple and their required professional Day-of Coordinator to ensure the venue is set

The Gardens of Castle Rock in Northfield specializes in weddings and other large events. (Submitted photo) up to match their wedding day requests. In the morning, the Set-Up Lead, along with the Gardens Set-Up Team, work to arrange both the

ceremony site and the Wedding Reception Tent. Before the ceremony, the Set-Up Lead and SetUp Team leave, and the Gardens Closing Team

comes on until the end of the event.

CONTINUED page 6

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The Capitol Room in St. Peter offers a beautiful indoor setting for weddings. (Photo by Studio KH)

The Capitol Room can be set up in countless different ways to celebrate a couple’s special day. (Submitted photo)

An Inspire Bridal show took place at The Capitol Room in 2021. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

CONTINUED from page 5 The Gardens works with couples from the very beginning to ensure their day is exactly how they’ve always dreamed it would be. For more information, visit The Gardens of Castle Rock’s website at TheGardensofCastleRock.com or call 651-264-9510.

The Capitol Room Now if you’re looking for an indoor venue, another blooming location is the Capitol Room in St. Peter. The Capitol Room was originally the home

of the St. Peter Armory, which was built in 1913. It was the first state-owned armory built in Minnesota. The building not only predated World War I but was important because it served as a center of military and social affairs in St. Peter. The Armory was used by the National Guard until about 1983 when the new armory was completed at the northern edge of town. In 1997 the armory was added to the National Register of Historic Places.From 1983-2014, the Armory was used as a sales office, call center, etc. for multiple different businesses. In late 2016, The Capitol Room started to take shape. They opened their doors for the first wedding on September 23rd, 2017.

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Megan Bennett Felber is the General Manager. She’s been a part of the venue since they opened six years ago. She said their main focus is on hosting wedding ceremonies and receptions. “But we also do a large number of corporate/ company holiday parties/gatherings, non-profit events, and we like to throw a party or two of our own every year,” she added. She said that surprisingly, February is a busy time of year for them, “For a lot of venues/wedding vendors, winter is a slow time for them, but we have been booked almost every weekend in February since we’ve opened. Our space is the perfect backdrop for a cozy winter wedding.” Bennett Felber said it is the historic charm that sets them apart and makes them a go-to destination for couples. “Complemented by a backdrop of exposed brick and plaster and all under the beautiful original wooden barrel vaulted ceiling, the ballroom is resplendent with over 20 vintage chandeliers and hundreds or twinkling Edison bulbs. We have two amazing suites for the bridal party and an eclectic space for a social hour. The bridal and groom suites have been carefully curated with a max of modern and vintage furniture and the walls are covered with funky art that is flirtatious and nostalgic,” she added. She said they also choose the Capitol Room because it is versatile. “It’s classic but elegant, mid-century but modern. The brick walls mixed with the lighting provide so much warmth and character that little decor is needed but adding it won’t overwhelm the space either. Couples choose this space because it’s easy. You walk in the doors at 8:00am to start getting ready and you don’t need to leave until the party is over. Having everything in one place makes it easy for not only the couples but also their guests. The town of St. Peter is also such a great destination for weddings. With plenty of hotels/lodging, cute little shops and restaurants, this town has proven to be the best little spot for our venue. We have a team of about 6-8 on every wedding day. Those include: bartenders, event leads, and support staff. Our support staff is the team that comes in between ceremonies and receptions and helps transition the room,” she said. The Capitol Room averages about 65 weddings a year. In February, they do about 4-6. September and October are their busiest months where they’ll do about 10 weddings a month. They book about 1-year to a year-and-ahalf in advance of the wedding date. “Our team here truly cares about not only the venue, but each and every one of our couples. Our team knows that this is not just a “job” this is someone’s happiest of days. We’re here to create a magical environment/experience for each and every one of our couples. I have

a very open and honest approach to each and every wedding day and I know my couples appreciate it. Being able to be such a large part of my couples days is a rewarding experience and I am incredibly thankful to have the team and couples that I have been fortunate to work with,” Bennett Felber said. 

Other wedding venues in Southern Minnesota: Chankaska Creek, Ranch and Winery 1179 E Pearl St, Kasota 507-931-0089 chankaskawineryweddings.com JR’s Barn 21573 45th St, Waldorf 507-327-7047 jrsbarn.com North Star Farm Event Center 34234 322nd St, Le Sueur 612-275-7195 northstarfarmevents.com Oak View Weddings and Events 7921 County Hwy 45 S., Owatonna 507-456-4404 oakviewweddingsandevents.com Owatonna Country Club 1991 Lemond Rd, Owatonna 507-451-6120 owatonnacc.com Shepherd’s Hill Farms 10970 Cody Lake Trl, Montgomery 612-889-9963 shepherdshillfarmmn.com Starfire Event Center 206 Second Ave. SW, Waseca 507-461-1387 starfire-event-center.business.site The 3 Ten Event Venue 10 Central Ave N, Faribault 651-253-6584 3teneventvenue.com The Mill Event Center 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca 507-461-1434 facebook.com/themillwaseca Ashley Hanley is a wife and mom of three kids under the age of five in North Mankato. When she’s not handing out snacks or kissing boo-boos, you can find her cheering on her favorite Minnesota sports teams and is a firm believer they will win a championship in her lifetime!

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Mollywood BLVD

e are living in interesting times. Dorito’s launched nacho cheese flavored alcohol, McDonald’s is hinting at a revival of the Snack Wrap, and you can’t go anywhere these days without seeing or hearing the name: Taylor Swift. You could almost call it the “Era of Taylor Swift” with her Eras Tour selling out globally and subsequent Era’s Tour Movie bringing in a massive box office haul, her relationship with Kansas City Chief’s tight end Travis Kelce and being named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year.’ The first ever Taylor Swift con is slated for October 2024 in New Orleans. I mean, this girl is America’s sweetheart and probably the biggest popstar since Michael Jackson. She even has a name for her fans: Swifties — and this army of cardigan wearing, Fourth of July celebrating, friendship bracelet making T-Swift devotees are swooning, because it seems like, for the first time in her life, Taylor Swift has finally found true love. The singer has a reputation for fleeting relationships, and it is a long-running joke that all her failed relationships have provided fodder for great breakup songs, but T-Swift seems like she may have finally met her match in Kelce. Are we out of the woods? Will this new flame finally be the one to take Taylor Swift off the market, and what will it mean for her songwriting? Hard to say, but what does it matter? Taylor and Travis kept their initial meeting this summer on the downlow, but it is true that he tried to have his people give her people his number after seeing her on tour and then blasted the story on his podcast, getting her attention. For those trying to unpack the timeline, this probably happened before the NFL pre-season, so when America assumed the pair were hard

MOLLY PENNY Molly Penny is a local radio personality and MNSU alum. It was her love of pop culture that got her interested in doing a radio show for KOWZ 100.9, and she is now the music and promotions director at KOWZ & KRUE Radio in Owatonna. She resides in Mankato with her movie buff husband and YouTube obsessed children. Catch her on Twitter at @ mollyhoodUSA.

Are we out of the woods? launching their relationship at that Chief’s game on Sept. 24, the pair were in fact already secretly involved, according to Swift’s interview with Time. It was fun to think we were watching it all unfold though. Taylor Swift’s earliest flame lasted only a few months but took tabloids by storm when the young star dated Jonas Brothers’ Joe Jonas from July to October 2008. The high-profile relationship and subsequent break-up reportedly inspired Swift’s hit song, “Forever & Always.” Shortly after that flame fizzled, Taylor briefly dated Taylor Lautner, known for his role as Jacob in the Twilight series. Their romance blossomed while on set for a film called Valentines Day. The couple parted ways with no bad blood. It seemed every starlet tried John Mayer on for size in the mid-aughts, and Taylor Swift, despite their significant age difference, was no exception. She dated the singer-songwriter for about two months, creating a blank space for her next relationship to actor Jake Gyllenhaal, which proved to last a bit longer but was also more tumultuous. Swift’s album “Red” features a slew of songs purportedly about Gyllenhaal, including “I Knew You Were Trouble” and “We Are Never Getting Back Together” Swift’s next noteworthy relationship

Next, she had a fling with Marvel Universe’s Loki, Tom Hiddleston, which seemed like a publicity stunt, not that the singer needs more publicity, producer Calvin Harris and most recently, actor Joe Alwyn. Following the split from Calvin Harris, largely in part due to Harris’ discomfort with Swift’s overshadowing fame, the couple had a public spat over songwriting credits for his hit “This Is What You Came For” which Taylor secretly penned and Harris took credit for. This was not the only drama that would accompany Taylor Swift’s superstardom. Who remembers the 2009 MTV VMA’s when Taylor won Best Video by a Female Artist and Kanye West showed us our first glimpse of what a toxic narcissist he was by rushing the stage, grabbing a mic, saying, “I’mma let you finish” but essentially the award belonged to Beyonce? It was cringy. Years later, West called her to “squash the beef” and also ask for permission to use the incident in a song which she gave him permission to do so in a leaked recording of the phone call, but when the song was released, his homage to Swift was, as the singer refers to as a frame-job, “I made that b**** famous.”

was with former One Direction member and pop-star Harry Styles. They dated at the height of both of their early popularity and created a media frenzy. The relationship only lasted from November 2012-January 2013. It seems three months is the average lifespan of a T-Swift relationship, and if my sources are correct, she has already surpassed that mark with her latest beau … this could be hopeful. However, her breakup with Harry inspired one of her most critically acclaimed albums, “1989.”

Swift has her critics and haters for sure, but she is always able to shake it off and is laughing all the way to the bank to the tune of a 1.1-billion-dollar net worth. Swift’s selling prowess was on full display if we take a look at this December, where she claimed half of the top 10 best selling albums in America. She was able to do this, because she has

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re-recorded her albums from her former record label, Big Machine Records, after some controversy with her former manager Scooter Braun who had sold her masters to another company for his own profit. Look what you made her do, Scooter. Her re-recordings are mostly faithful to the originals, so, Swifties, don’t get your cardigans in a twist, but what a brilliant way to take ownership and control of your empire, Taylor. Swift uses what are called, “easter eggs” in everything from her liner notes to her videos, and even Instagram captions. What is an “easter egg,” you ask? Essentially it is a secret or encrypted message often used in Marvel movies, video games and advertisements. In her video for “Karma” from her late 2022 release, Midnights, there are many hints towards 1989, the 2014 album that won her an Album of the Year Grammy. For example, Swifties know the color blue represents the album 1989, and in the video, Swift points her blue painted fingernail at a clock to the number 8. August is the 8th month of the year, and she announced during an Aug. 9 stop on her Era’s Tour that she would be re-recording and releasing 1989. This sort of thing is so constant, I wonder if her fans are even able to truly just enjoy her work at face value anymore. It’s like a virtual escape room. Taylor Swift is irrefutably an incredibly talented performer and songwriter but one of my favorite things about her is that she has been a consistently positive role model for my daughters and young people all over the world. Her tours are often attended by groups of motherdaughter duos and have been a massive source of female empowerment, joy, and friendship. She is already off to a great start with Travis Kelce who doesn’t mind the next-level fame and says one of his favorite things about her is her closeness to her family, so maybe she will start writing more love songs and less break-up songs and eventually we can even expect an epic wedding? In our wildest dreams. 

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From the MUSIC SIDE

MEGAN ROLLOFF Megan Rolloff is an interior designer in Mankato, who lives in New Ulm with her doting husband Tom. She loves music, especially of the Minnesota variety, and now she writes about it. Reach her at megankrolloff@gmail.com.

Dessa, my musical soulmate

ccording to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED.com), a soulmate is a person who shares a deep understanding or bond with another; especially one ideally suited to another as a lover or spouse. While I do have a spouse, he is not the subject of this article. This article is about my musical soulmate. And, as with much of pop culture these days, the internet does not agree on the definition of a musical soulmate. Until the OED decides to take a side, I am going to say that it is a musician or artist with whose music you seem to always connect. By that definition, my musical soulmate is Dessa. Let me start out by saying that I am not a stalker. I don’t know where she lives. I’ve never followed her home after a show, and I have very rarely even interacted with her on social media. I just

really love her work. For those who may not know who she is, though I find that almost blasphemous, I will fill you in on the basics. Dessa is the stage name of Margaret Wander. She is a native Minneapolitan, though she spends a good deal of time in New York City these days. She is 42 years old. She just recently released her 5th full-length studio album, “Bury the Lede.” She is known

most as a hip-hop artist affiliated with the Doomtree collective. But as of late, I would say she has tiptoed away from hip-hop and

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a little more toward a pop sound. And to me, she is simply amazing. I have been musically smitten since I first saw her live at the first Music On-A-Stick showcase at the Minnesota State Fair Grandstand in 2012. She was part of an all-Minnesotan line up that first year, and she blew me away. I purchased her CD (yep, still doing that in 2012), “Castor, The Twin” at the merch booth. Rarely has a week gone by since that I haven’t listened to her, in one format or another. Her first fulllength album, “A Badly Broken Code”, was released in January of 2010. This is her most pure hip-hop album, in my opinion. It leans more heavily into rap than her subsequent albums. Three of her most iconic tunes came from this album; “Dixon’s Girl”, “The Chaconne”, and “Alibi”. I could give an impromptu, albeit very poor, performance of any of these three songs with ease. Also on this album is “The

Bullpen”, a feminist anthem that was featured in the 2018 Academy Award nominated RBG documentary. Her most recent album, “Bury the Lede”, came out just this past September. This one is the most popsounding thus far, and I’m here for it. It has some distinctly ‘80’s vibes and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Being an ‘80s baby myself, I have an affinity for the shiny, bouncy music of that decade. The track, “Tell Me Again” embodies this retro-yet-fresh sound particularly well. But wait, there’s more. Dessa does not only excel in the musical realm, she is also a published author and podcast host. She has written several books of poetry as well as a memoirin-essays; “My Own Devices: True Stories from the Road on Music, Science, and Senseless Love”. She has been published by The New York Times and National Geographic Traveler. She is also the host of the podcast, ‘Deeply Human’, which explores questions about our inner selves from a psychological, biological, and anthropological perspective.

The list of her accomplishments and creative endeavors is most definitely too long for this one article to do justice to. But the quality in her work, that seems to be prevalent across all platforms, that I find most captivating, is her ability to pull you into the experience with just her words. Each time I listen to a song, I can picture the scenario like a movie in my head. Her lyrics are so perfectly and cleverly written that each word seems to fit into the next like a wellcrafted jigsaw puzzle. Nothing is fluff and no decision is made by accident. She is highly intelligent and uncommonly selfaware. And she is willing to share all of that emotional goo so we know that someone else out there has been through it too. As this is the “Love” issue, this is my love letter to my favorite artist. And a thank you for doing what you do so I can read it, think about it, listen to it, and sing along with it whenever I need to. Again, not a stalker, just a fan. 

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MARY CLOSNER

Rants & RAVES

Mary Closner lives in Northfield, making bad decisions so you don’t have to. Reach her at 1964minx@gmail.com.

Single in the season of LOVE

often tell my gal friends who are on their second or third husbands, that it’s their fault I’m single. If you’ve used up more than your share of the available husband pool, it throws off the dating universe and makes it impossible for some of us to couple up. Sure, it might have been just a starter husband or two, but now I need to spend my future alone because you used up more than your share of the men. Where is the lid for my pot? I’m well aware of the countless reasons I’m probably undateable. My attitude when I’m hungry in addition to my love of Neil Diamond songs are just a couple of my quirks. I’m highmaintenance. I live alone and I can barely stand me. I see the hair on my bathroom sink, that came from me, that I know is clean, and I’m still grossed out. How can I expect someone to move in and wanna talk to me with all that hair lying around? I wish, now that Greta Gerwig is done directing the “Barbie” movie, she would do a flick where she interviews all my old flames and asks them what it was like being involved with me. I’m imagining either a romantic comedy or a horror movie. I see it going either way, but a gal could learn a lot from this insight.

Basically, I want my dating life to be like those Hallmark movies. I want the gorgeous guy who runs the family bakery (that is hanging on by a thread) in his small town. You know the guy…he’s a widow who was happily married for years until his wife died tragically and he hasn’t dated since. He has one super smart child who is perfectly well behaved and just longs for a new Mom. He lives in an amazing log cabin that he built himself and has a mysterious scar that no one ever seems to talk about. He’s kind, doesn’t swear or drink, and is beloved by everyone in town. When he isn’t at the bakery, he’s volunteering to provide all the sweets for the annual Valentine’s dance that is the biggest event held in that area (although there appear to be only 15 people in the background when they show the actual event). As for me, I’ll leave my super successful career in the big city to come home for a visit and fall madly in love with him after stopping to pick up heart-shaped cookies at his store. We’ll lock eyes and pretty much seal the deal with our first kiss at the big dance. Then, I’ll assist him at the bakery with some recently unearthed secret family recipes only I know how to bake. Moments later, a major retailer walks in and tastes our unbelievablyawesome cookies. It’s a miracle that saves the

bakery and basically, the whole town. He’ll immediately want to carry our products in grocery store chains around the world. We’ll be rich and in love. Simple. That’s the way I want it to go … just like in the movies. The alternative, the online dating thing, is way too much work. I don’t wanna have to pretend I like to take long walks on the beach when in reality, I don’t even like to go outside. I don’t want to have to mention my addiction to my phone, my family’s small appliance curse or the fact that I don’t want someone to be around ALL the time. They can visit, but then, they should go back to their own place. A dating profile that lists my main interests as Netflix and nachos is probably not gonna get me the kinda partner that’s on my vision board. These are complicated times. Romance doesn’t get any easier as we age. My love of the CPAP machines that everyone over age 50 seems to cart around, is well

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known. I adore the soothing white noise they make. I don’t care if they make you look like a lunatic. To be honest, I don’t even want you staying in the same bed with me. We both know we’d sleep better if you stayed in the guest room. Should I mention this little detail on the dating profile? I guess I don’t have much energy to put towards romance at this age. Now, I mostly want someone to come over and fix things at my house while I make them snacks. Dating would have been so much easier when I was in my 20’s. That dream decade when my knees still worked and before life made me bitter. Basically, I just want a handyman and a dinner companion. So, call me if you’re available to go to a movie, but promise you won’t talk during the film and you’ll go back to your own home when it’s over. 

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SARAH OSTERBAUER

Profile of a MINN MUSICIAN

Sarah Osterbauer is a die-hard music lover. When she does her budget each month, food comes after concert tickets. Find her on twitter @ SarahOwrites.

Best local albums 2023

his year, we continued to see the fruits of the pandemic’s labors, many artists discarding any arbitrary musical rules, blending and bending genres, experimenting, stepping away from bands or back to them. In 2023 artists refused to be boxed in, discovering new sides to their creativity and benefiting greatly from it. Many of these albums feature Minnesota love (i.e Mae Simpson’s “Minnehaha Mama” and Molly’s Brandt’s “Minneapolis”), speaking to the force of the northern identity and connection they have to the community. All possess a certain je ne sais quoi which made them stand out from the many other releases this year. Minnesota’s local music is never short on talent, tenacity and drive which made it tough to pick favorites, but these ones bubbled to the top.

Mae Simpson - Chandelier & Bloom The debut album from Mae Simpson and her larger than life band, is full of earworms. From the island party vibe of “California (Carolina)”, to the Janisesque “Why” and the nostalgiainducing Plain Clothes Dreams, listeners will find these songs permeating their psyches. Mae’s vocal style goes yard, with her ability to be punchy and funky, to loud in despair, to quiet and reflective, sometimes all in the same tune. While the album was able to capture the essence of her band’s energy, it goes without saying that she is a can’t-miss live performer.

KC Rae - Think I’m Gonna Die On Think I’m Gonna Die, KC Rae (aka leader/lead singer for Now, Now) picks up her sound where Mazzy Star left off. Breathy truths encompassing regret, shame and sadness pour out over a synth laden backdrop. KC, who was recently diagnosed with autism, found freedom in her diagnosis and a new sense of self. Leaning into that freedom, she plays most of the instruments on the album, which she produced herself.

DURRY- Suburban Legend Catapulted onto the scene with their infectious hit “Who’s Laughing Now?” the brother-sister duo worked quickly to release their full length album Suburban Legend, capitalizing on their momentum. Born out of the pandemic when they both

happened to move back in with their parents, the two found they were good checks and balances in songwriting together. Now their ultra relatable pop punk anthems beg to be yelled back at them in a crowd of sweaty adolescents (or adults for that matter), the sound harkening back to the likes of Lit or Eve 6. You could try not to learn the lyrics to these steering wheel tapping bops, but what fun would that be?

the times on “Staggering” feels especially poignant as we watch the everyday horrors of the news coupled with the nonstop pace of life. “It’s staggering isn’t it all the ways we can fall apart, it’s staggering isn’t it all the things we expect of the human heart.” “I get tired just thinking about the relentless never quit, the steady beat beat of it… I know you’re bleeding but can you give just a little bit more.”

Joyann Parker - Roots

HALEY - Hunca Munca

Arguably one of the best voices to come out of the Twin Cities, Joyann Parker is known for her fusion of jazz, soul and blues styles. On Roots she infuses that base with a bit of country and we are grateful for it. The album is heavy with tails of a woman scorned and she’s ready to spill all the tea. Come thirsty, you will not want to miss a drop of this.

HALEY has never been afraid to be exactly what she wants and this is especially true of the vast sonic landscape Hunca Munca covers. An album she thought was done, and then opted to completely re-work with the help of producer/engineer Brian Joseph and producer Steve Garrington. The results were worth the wait. Sweeping lush tones, unhinged lyrics and Haley’s ethereal vocals. Never shy, and never withholding, Haley doesn’t know how to be anything but raw and honest. While she has stated she will not be touring in support of this album, she is playing shows here and there locally and it would be wise to catch one. .

Molly Brandt - Surrender To The Night To listen to Molly is to be transported to a dusty country landscape, loneliness swells and swirls in the gorgeous laments. Slow pedal steel spotlights Molly’s melancholy lilt, which lives in the space between Margo Price and Miranda Lambert. She’s found a way to sound both southern and unmistakably Minnesotan as she croons, “Mama I’m singing at The Eagles Club tonight. I got all dressed up so I could see the city lights.” and “I’m in love with a--union man.” Surrender To The Night would blend seamlessly on any and every country radio station.

Sarah Morris - Here’s To You On her fifth album, Sarah builds narratives by observing the beauty in the minutiae of everyday things, the sway of a skirt, the sunlight through a window, the way a tree branch holds the leaves just so. Her storytelling zooming in close and then out again painting the portrait of intimate conversations, outlining the tough corners of our lives, but always coming from a place of love. Master of a solid bridge, Here’s To You finds Sarah taking risks both in song construction and melody. Speaking to

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The Alarmists - (self titled) After over a decade since their last album, The Alarmists are back with their signature brand of indie rock infused with Brit pop. On this self-titled work, relationship disconnects and questions surrounding them hover above pop rock beats, glossy guitars and the occasional front center piano. Invoking Beatles rhythms and Bowie’s phrasing, lead singer Eric Lovold’s voice never waivers. Expert level production gives this album a polished sophisticated sound.

Other notable 2023 releases Fathom Lane - In The Driftless Leslie Vincent - About Last Night Nur-D - CRUSH

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Through a SOMINN LENS

AUDREY KLETSCHER HELBLING Audrey Kletscher Helbling creates with her Canon camera and words from her home base in Faribault. She focuses on the ordinary, on everyday life. You can find more of her work on her blog: https://mnprairieroots.com. Contact Audrey at audrey@ mnprairieroots.com

An uplifting message found on a stone at the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf.

Bluebird of happiness folk art on a bird feeder at Barb and Bob’s place, rural Rice County.

The word “LOVE” forms a photo backdrop to the IRIS Sunflower Garden

Inspiringly joyful art by Lincoln Elementary School student Addyson Hettinger was part of a 2023 student art exhibit in Faribault.

n the everyday moments of life, love abounds in the most ordinary of places. I’m not talking romantic love, but rather that which conveys a love of, a zest for, an appreciation of, life. Something that sparks joy or laughter, inspires, links us to nature, makes us think, reminds us of our human connections. Whether in a sunflower field, an art gallery, a garden, a park, a shop, along the street, tucked in a corner or elsewhere, these bits and pieces and scenes have all caught my eye during the past year. A friendly dog in a floral shop. A princess pouring tea. A “LOVE PEOPLE JUST THE WAY THEY ARE” Fred Rogers quote on a front yard sign. All speak to love. I’ve felt encouraged. Uplifted. I’ve laughed. I’ve been

Love of the performing arts showcased in bird bath dancers, Barb and Bob’s place.

brought to tears. I’ve read humorous words and loving words and inspirational words. And words that speak of hope and forgiveness. Words that empower, too. Love flows—whether in passion for a cause, for customers, for the arts, for a sports team, for nature... Whatever moves someone to express themselves, to embrace community and this planet we share can equate love. From nature-inspired bold acrylic on canvas abstracts to a handcrafted wooden bluebird of happiness to a child’s sunny mountainscape crayon drawing, creative love flourishes. And I love that. Minnesotans are a decidedly creative bunch and we are the better for it. In the all of life, love can be created, seen, read, experienced, felt. Love life. It’s ours to love. 

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Loving birds by sheltering them at Barb and Bob’s place.

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At Reconciliation Park in Mankato, a Dakota Prayer speaks to love and forgiveness.

The Infants Remembered in Silence Sunflower Garden was a loving memorial to infants and children, providing a place for families to express their love and to grieve.

Princess Noelle lovingly serves tea in the IRIS Sunflower Garden.

A loving message in memory of Mia, written on a memorial wall at the Infants Remembered in Silence Sunflower Garden. For the love of Minnesota-born cartoonist Charles Schulz, musicloving Schroeder was part of the 2023 Kiwanis Holiday Light Display at Sibley Park in Mankato. The Minnesota History Center is currently featuring an exhibit, “The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz,” until June 9, 2024.

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Loving quotes by Mr. Rogers inspire in a front yard in Nerstrand.

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Nature carries away worries in this abstract acrylic painting, “Keep Going Forward,” by Twin Cities artist Amanda Webster.

Bold, love of nature-inspired art by Twin Cities artist Amanda Webster, exhibited at the Paradise Center for the Arts, Faribault, in 2023.

Loving community by giving back at Eclectic Alliance in Faribault.

Harley, the loving shop dog at Simply Rustic Floral Design.

Love found at a local garage sale, a wooden puzzle of “The Symbol of Love,” the Eiffel Tower.

For the love of trivia at the Circle Inn Bar, North Mankato.

Parked along a Faribault city street, a car owned by a fan who clearly loves the Minnesota Vikings.

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LISA EIDE

SoMINN FASHION

Lisa Eide is the owner of Her Happy Place in St. Peter.

Embracing Trends, Solutions, and a Fashionable Mindset:

adies, get ready for a year-long adventure through the world of style! This column isn’t just about fleeting trends; it’s your passport to a year brimming with solutions, healthy fashion mindsets, and confidence-boosting tips—all aimed at combating the frump and elevating your style game.

FIT MATTERS:

Elevating Your Style Through Flattering Silhouettes Let’s talk fit—because finding that perfect fit is like unlocking the secret to effortless chic. Oversizing to conceal can lead to a frumpy, untidy appearance. Aim for pieces that flatter your frame, ensuring they compliment your figure without drowning it. Balance flowy tops with pants that widen at the cuff for a harmonious silhouette. And don’t underestimate the power of a V-neck; it draws attention to your radiant face, adding an elegant flair to your look. Remember, when your clothes fit just right, they don’t just cover, they celebrate your unique beauty.

COLORS:

Painting Confidence and Radiance Colors aren’t just hues; they’re moodchangers and confidence-boosters. Finding your palette—tones that make you feel vibrant and alive—is crucial. Use colors that enhance your skin, complement your hair, and make your eyes sparkle. When you wear resonating colors,

it’s like a burst of happiness radiating from within. Dare to explore vivid hues, embrace vibrant tones, and let your wardrobe become a canvas celebrating your inner joy and confidence.

ACCESSORIES:

Your Confidence Boosters Accessories aren’t just adornments; they’re the artful touches that elevate your style. The secret to vibrant youthfulness lies in moderation. Let one piece steal the show—allow an artful pair of earrings to shine, toning down the necklace or skipping it altogether. Sometimes, a fun-colored shoe echoing the earrings’ hues ties your look together seamlessly from head to toe.

HAIR AND SKIN: Embrace Your Youthful Glow

As time passes, our faces undergo changes, but softening hair color and shape can balance harshness. Self-care is key—moisturizing and massaging your skin plumps shallow areas and enhances natural color by boosting blood flow. You don’t need frequent salon visits; find an excellent esthetician and hair stylist who’ll work their magic and guide you on reclaiming that youthful glow. Join us on this year-long journey as we dive deeper into these frumpfighting tips and explore a multitude of other strategies to keep your style fresh, your confidence high, and your fashion mindset vibrant! Next up, get ready for a deep dive into color trends and discovering how to tailor them perfectly for your skin tone. Get set to uncover your personal style’s treasures and stride into a year of fashion confidence! 

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SoMinn FOOD & DRINK

Where to go on

hen love is in the air and we have the urge for a date night meal, we in Southern Minnesota often think of the Twin Cities for a special place to go. And yes, the cuisine there is fantastic — underrated on a national scale even. But the truth is, you don’t have to travel so far for a special night with your loved one. Our local communities offer so much. We just have to be willing to explore.

A LITTLE BIT FANCY This is the category where local residents are most likely to turn their heads toward the cities, but there are options right here, including some of our newest dining establishments. Roma’s Italian Eatery, 203 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna, 507-413-0278, romasitalianeatery. com. Owatonna’s newest sit down restaurant is a fine dining option. Easy to guess from the name, it’s serving up Italian food. But this isn’t Olive Garden. This is a place that prides itself on slowing down and enjoying authentic food made with fresh ingredients and treasured techniques. Lacey’s Kitchen & Cocktails, 632 2nd St., Kenyon, 507-623-1173, laceyskc.com. In this southwestern Goodhue County town, founded in 1856 and listing just under 2,000 residents in the 2020 census, Lacey’s Kitchen & Cocktails

PHILIP WEYHE

Review boldly goes where no other local restaurant ventures: to New American cuisine served in a stylish setting.

Reunion, 501 Division St. South, Northfield, 507-366-1337, reunioneatdrinkgather.com. If you want to feel really fancy, grab your gang and request the table near the grill at Reunion. Watching their expert chefs execute the production of your chosen house-smoked ribs, citrus/chiliglazed salmon or 12-ounce ribeye bedecked with smoked tomato bacon jam is sure to get your mouth watering well in advance of the entree’s ultimate arrival.

are numerous options across our region. You don’t have to go far to feel the warmth that a hometown restaurant can provide. Torey’s Restaurant & Bar, 208 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna, 507-455-9260, toreys.net. Boasting the largest alcohol selection in southern Minnesota (with over 30 bottled beers, 16 beers on tap and 140 bottles of booze), you’ll be set to start off with wings, egg rolls or a flatbread pizza. Salads, sandwiches, a variety of pasta choices and a delectable listing of steak, walleye or BBQ pork rib dinners will further tempt you.

3rd Street Tavern, 408 S. Third St., St. Peter, 507-934-3314, 3rdstreettavern.com. This popular supper spot has plenty room for seating across two indoor dining areas and an outdoor patio, but it feels cozy, with walls separating the different spaces. The menu is meat heavy — smoked, grilled or cooked Redemption how you want Kitchen & Cockthem. It would tails, 31 3rd St be a challenge to NE, Faribault, 507make a bad order 323-8054, getLittle Dandy Bar & Grill, Le Center with food of this redemption.com. quality served. And Beautifully situated the cocktail menu in a refurbished has plenty to offer historic building first as well. constructed in the 1870s, Redemption’s George’s Fine brick walls (digniSteaks & Spirits, fied stone graces the 301 N. Minlower level, which nesota St., New can also double as a Ulm. Immensely private party space), popular with locals, high ceilings, penGeorge’s is exactly dant lighting over the type of restauan extensive bar, rant that comes dark wood chairs Minnesota Wing King, St. Peter to mind with the and handcrafted word “warmth.” wood tables all George himself set the scene for can be seen there most nights, and you can enlightened dining. expect to find the tables full downstairs and upstairs at supper time. The menu is great, as a whole, but if you like steak, just keep it simple FEEL THE WARMTH If the vibe is fine fare but casual feeling, there and get that. You won’t be disappointed. El Molino, 214 State St. N., Waseca, 507-8354223, elmolinowaseca.com. There are all kinds of excellent Mexican restaurants in our neck of the woods, and El Molino seems to constantly stand out as a crowd favorite. It has more reviews on Google than any other Waseca restaurant, and they are almost all positive. From the classic steak ranchero to the new piña chimichanga, you just can’t go wrong here. And the workers bring the warmth, always seeming to have smiles on their faces. Luke’s, 205 S. Main St., Le Sueur, 507-6071919, Luke’s LLC on Facebook. Le Sueur was desperate for a new restaurant, and Luke’s more than answered the call. This diner-style establishment sits at the heart of the newly revitalized downtown. It’s breakfast in the morning and early afternoon, with sandwiches and burgers for supper. Don’t forget to get a malt.

JUST SOME GOOD BAR FOOD George’s Fine Spirits & Steaks, New Ulm

Love can flourish in the simplest of places, including your local bar and grill. There is no shortage of these establishments in our area, and most have their favorites. But if you want

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Reunion - Eat, Drink & Gather, Northfield

Roma’s Italian Eatery, Owatonna

Luke’s, Le Sueur

Torey’s Restaurant & Bar Owatonna to explore, here are some options in our region with some seriously good bar food. Minnesota Wing King, 43539 French Hill Rd., St. Peter, 507-519-1083, minnesotawingking.com. It’s hard to imagine bar food getting much better than this. While Wing King also has awesome smoked meats and other entrees, you cannot go wrong ordering wings or a burger here. This writer recommends the lemon pepper dry rub wings and the Olive That burger. And it’s a great date night option if you don’t feel the need, or have the time, to make a reservation. Just come in and take a spot when you find one. Depot Bar & Grill, 311 Heritage Pl., Faribault, 507-332-2825, thedepotbargrill.com. The Depot is no dive bar — far from it. In fact, it could just as easily make the “fancy” section of this list. But for those who just want a casual spot to eat a really good burger, this is a fantastic choice. From the basic The Depot Burger to The Works to The Juicy Lucy, it’s all good. Little Dandy Bar & Grill, 1070 E Derrynane St., Le Center, 507-357-6062, Little Dandy Sports Bar on Facebook. Little Dandy offers a variety of home-cooked-style meals, but burgers are their speciality. A lot of food for not a lot of money. 

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SOUTHERN MINN

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.COM THURSDAY, DEC 28

Member Show & Rev. Jack Dahl Exhibit - Waseca-- 12-5 p.m., Waseca Art Center, 200 N. State St. Last chance to see the current exhibit at WAC, which ends Jan. 6. Open noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.

My Famous Friends Faribault-- 9 p.m., Boxers Grill & Bar, 429 Central Ave. N, Faribault. My Famous Friends is a unique, cool and funny multimedia rock n’ roll experience.

SATURDAY, DEC 30

SEE MORE @ SouthernMinnSCENE.com Calendar events compiled by Philip Weyhe.

tary, 25600 Nevada Ave., Elko New Market. Crossroads Church is pleased to bring you Elko New Market’s 2nd Annual Noon Year’s Eve Ball Drop. Come play some games, show off your dance moves and bring in the new year with your friends and neighbors. This event is open to the public.

Ave., St. Peter. Dawn yourself in your best Moulin Rouge Inspired/Masquerade Attire and dance the night away to performances by Silver Summer Band and DJ Shoba. We will all mourn another year gone and toast the New Year with Champagne as the clock strikes midnight. Enjoy some small bites, sweet treats and a cocktail (or three).

Cosmic Moonlight Blowout - Northfield-- 11:30 a.m., Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes, 1700 Highway 3 S. Party any time of the day or evening on New Year’s Eve. OR…party at night at Flaherty’s cosmic moonlight blowout with pizza, apps, all-you-can-bowls, jackpots, giveaways and more. Branded - Owatonna-- 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m., Owatonna Eagles 1791, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. Minnesota’s hottest country act brings high energy fun to all the hottest current songs.

Amy Manette - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing jazz classics.

TUESDAY, JAN 02 Holiday Display - Owatonna-- 1-5 p.m., Owatonna Art Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna. Last chance to see the display, which ends Dec. 31. Experience “Winter Dreams”. It’s the OAC’s gift to the Owatonna community. This year’s display includes Barbie dolls, figurines of Christmas carolers, and beautiful holiday decorations throughout the building. Gallery hours are 1-5 p.m. TuesdaySunday. Songwriters in the Round - Northfield-7-9:30 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. December will feature all Northfield local artists: Sam Ryden; Chris AshRay Coudret; Mark Ross; Nikita Gessler; Sam Nelson; Tim Goodwin; and Anna Marie Mitchell.

FRIDAY, DEC 29 Todd Jindra - Le Center-- 7 p.m., Le Center Municipal Liquors, 20 N Waterville Ave. Some acoustic guitar music.

Another Time Around - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Performing classic rock.

New Years Eve Dinner & Celebration - St. Peter-- 4-9 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. Celebrate each other and your year of accomplishments with a special dinner. Reservations welcome but not required. The Zillionaires - Northfield-- 6-9 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. A self-styled, alt-variety band The Zillionaires perform compelling original songs by Wendy Smith and covers from a diverse catalogue of Americana, country, roots, rock, and blues. The Zillionaires entertain music lovers with their skilled musicianship and well-honed sense of fun.

SUNDAY, DEC 31 New Years Eve Party - Kasota-- 8 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Ring in the New Year with Chankaska and Neon Live, featuring the music of Elton John, Queen, ABBA, and more from the glam rock and disco era. Dress the part or come as you are. Tickets online; include new year’s toast and hors d-oeuvres. Noon Year’s Eve Ball - Elko New Market-- 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Eagle View Elemen-

Gary West - Kilkenny-- 3 p.m., Toy Box Saloon, 216 Kilkenny Rd., Kilkenny. What a way to end the year 2023. Come on out and enjoy some classic country music and great food and drinks.

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A Night at the Moulin Rouge - St. Peter-8 p.m., The Capitol Room, 419 S. Minnesota

Tiny Trekkers: All About Bears - Henderson-- 1011:30 a.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. Black Bear cubs are being born this month! Bring your preschooler to learn about bears in general, and more about the black bears in Minnesota. We will go on a “bear hunt”, so remember to dress your child for the weather. This is a drop-off preschool program, appropriate for ages 4-6 years.

THURSDAY, JAN 04 Woodpecker Wonders - Faribault-6-7 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St. E, Faribault. Geared towards adults and families. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Naturalist Andrew Wendt will be back to tell you all about Minnesota woodpeckers.

FRIDAY, JAN 05 Art Gallery - Northfield-- 12-5 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild, 304

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Division St. S., Northfield. Featuring the works of Anders Nienstaedt and Stephen Mckenzie. Opens Jan. 5 and runs through Feb. 10.

TUESDAY, JAN 09

dressed up, and let Farmamerica treat you for an evening, including a four-course meal and entertainment. Tickets online.

SATURDAY, JAN 13

Gun & Knife Show - Waseca-- 4-8 p.m., The Mill Event Center, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. Buy, sell and trade.

SATURDAY, JAN 06

Genealogy Assistance Open House - Faribault-- 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Rice County Historical Society, 1814 NW 2nd Ave., Faribault. Interested in your Family History? Not Sure Where to Start? Stumped on a missing relative? Sign up for a slot with an RCHS genealogist. Appointments are 50 minutes and the genealogist will work with you to dig into your family tree and help you piece together your past. Reserve appointment at 507-332-2121 or rchs@rchistory. org. Free.

THURSDAY, JAN 11

Family Expedition: All About Bears Henderson-- 10-11 a.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. Black Bear cubs are being born this month. Come learn more about bears in general, and the bears in Minnesota in particular. The group will go on a “bear hunt”, so remember to dress for the weather.

Generative Writing - St. Peter-- 6-7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Drop-in fee $10, no registration required. For absolute beginners and anyone looking to shake up their creative process. Kristin Cronn-Mills is the teacher.

FRIDAY, JAN 12 Gallery Opening - Faribault-- 5-7 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. The Adrian Barnett & The Questet - Owatonna-- 1 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, Carlander Gallery 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Award-winning will feature Dave Angell; the Vranesh baritone saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist Gallery will feature Adrian Barnett has performed all across the Kathryn Wood; nation at venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to the K&M Gallery Lollapalooza. Adrian also leads his own group will feature Robyn (The Questet) comprised of a rotating cast of Hager, Robert musicians throughout the nation. Mueller; and the Creger Gallery will feature Hunter Herbes.

Sweet Reads Book Club - Faribault-- 2-3 p.m., River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Road, Faribault. A one group discussion on topics that include environmentalism, forestry, wellness, sustainability, climate change and more. January’s Book is “Little Book of Forest Bathing: Discovering the Japanese Art of Self Care” by Kevin Kotur. Just Crista - St. Peter-6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. A girl, a guitar, a fiddle, a ukulele and a song. Enjoy an evening listening to the incredibly talented Crista.

Murder Mystery Dinner - New Prague-5:30-9 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. “Ladies and Gentlemen, we kindly ask you to take your seats for tonight’s performance.” As a hush falls over the crowd, is that a scream heard behind the curtain? What? Why? And whodunnit? Velvet Touch is serving an Italian Buffet of Penne, Chicken Alfredo, Meatballs in Marinara, Garlic Bread, Caesar Salad, and dessert. Tickets online or call 612655-6176.

some rock and blues.

Snow Crush Fat Bike Race - Faribault-1-5:30 p.m., River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Road, Faribault. After a four year hiatus, Snow Crush is back for its sixth race. If you’ve done the race before expect it to be very similar. We will have the three distances again over the four mile course that has a couple tweaks done to it. The after-party and awards are back too at the same venue as previous years. Tickets online.

Melissa Schulz - Owatonna-- 7 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Melissa is a classically trained pianist and singer traveling around southern Minnesota with her keyboard, bringing live music to retirement homes, wineries, breweries, bars, fairs, festivals,weddings, private events and more. Her vocal versatility and polished piano chops allow her to present a large variety of music. Wade Snake - Blooming Prairie-- 7 p.m., Blooming Prairie Cue Company, 302 Main St E, Blooming Prairie. Come and enjoy some great live music, food, drinks and fun.

Czechmate 3 Montgomery-- 7 p.m., Revival on Craft Beer Expo - Mankato-- 3-6 p.m., Mayo Main, 213 First St. S., Montgomery. Clinic Health System Event Center, 1 Civic CenA wrestling show ter Plaza, Mankato. The expo will showcase the offerings of craft breweries here in Minnesota, as appropriate for the well as from across the United States. Attendees whole family. Tickets at the expo will have the opportunity to sample online at rusticfarmbeers from over 40 different craft breweries in a eronmain.com. commemorative sampling glass.

Here for the Hoedown Winter Show - Waterville-- 3 p.m., Waterville-Elysian-Morristown Schools, 263 Fifth St. S., Waterville. All classes will be performing including special sessions.

Rock of Ages - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Listen to

Raise a Toast - Waseca-- 6 p.m., Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca. A women’s night out. Raise a Toast is a special evening dedicated to celebrating and appreciating the incredible women in our lives. Grab the girls, get

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Comedy Under the Bridge Faribault-- 7-10 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault. A comedy show showcasing some of the talent Minneapolis comedy has to offer.

Everett Smithson Band - Kasota-- 8 p.m.-12 a.m., The Blue Moon Bar & Grill, 300 S. Webster

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Are you BOLD enough For the COLD activities? January 22-28, 2024 in Owatonna Keep updated with the schedule of events visitowatonna.org/boldandcold

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CONTINUED from page 17 St., Kasota. Always a local favorite bringing their hot movin’ music from up and down the Mississippi River. Zydeco (swamp rock), blues and funky roots of all kinds.

Fox Hollow Winter Dance - Le Center-8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m., Le Center American Legion. Annual winter dance featuring live music.

Sowah Mensah and the Macalester African Music Ensemble - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Shattuck-St. Mary’s, Faribault. Sowah Mensah, a renowned ethnomusicologist and “Master Drummer” from Ghana, West Africa, is a prominent figure in both academia and performance. He serves as a music professor at Macalester College and the University of St. Thomas, directing their African Music Ensembles. He also directs the African Music Ensemble at the University of Minnesota.

SUNDAY, JAN 14

FRIDAY, JAN 19

Ginger Commodore - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Jazz, funk, R&B, gospel, soul singer and so much more, Ginger has had an incredible and acclaimed career. She started her career with The Sounds of Blackness, is a founding member of Moore By Four and has been a featured soloist at Orchestra Hall, the Guthrie, Penumbra, and Children’s Theater stages to name just a few. Ginger was recently inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame. Tickets online.

Imagination Library Fundraiser - Northfield-- 6:30 p.m., Armory Square Event Center, 519 Division St., Northfield. Put on your western wear and celebrate the legendary Dolly Parton’s 78th birthday while supporting a great cause. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library Fundraiser and Birthday Bash features music by the Bam Bams, a Dolly singer, Dolly-inspired games, photo booth and a dress-alike contest. Tickets online. Every purchase sponsors a child for one year.

THURSDAY, JAN 18

Songwriters in the Round - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Come enjoy a variety of local artists showcasing their original work, and sharing stories of how those songs came to be. Free | All Ages. Vijay Iyer Trio Northfield-7:30-9 p.m., Carleton College, 1 N College St., Northfield. A composer and pianist active across multiple musical communities, Iyer has created a consistently innovative, emotionally resonant body of work over the last twenty-five years, earning him a place as one of the leading musicmakers of his generation.

Did we miss something? Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Andrea Lyn - New Ulm-- 7-9:30 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm. Award winning musician, singer and songwriter, Andrea Lyn shares captivating melodies and lyrics stemming from real life. She has shared the stage with legendary artists and performed her songs for thousands. Her passion and love for music shows in each song and every performance.

SATURDAY, JAN 20 Sno-secas Club Ride - Waseca-- 11 a.m., Waseca American Legion, 700 S. State St. Enjoy a snowmobile ride, part of Sleigh & Cutter Festival. Arrive early to register.

The Jamboyz - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Performing upbeat music acoustically. 80s Time Travel Adventure - New Prague-7-9 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. You’ve always known your neighbor is a mad scientist, but you never

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thought it would come to this! At the neighborhood party, you were fooling around in his garage with a rickety, unstable time machine and got sent to the 1980s. Similar to an escape room experience, this adventure will have you working your brain. Dressing up in 80s-themed outfits is highly encouraged. Call 612-655-6176 to purchase tickets.

House on Fire Band - Owatonna-- 7 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. House on Fire is a collection of songs written by Chris Hepola. HOF does not have a strong emphasis on genre, though you can hear the influences in the music. Each song has its own path of development. The music has grounded melodic and harmonic roots with specific rhythmic and polyrhythmic layers. The many voices function together to create a cohesive sound. 651 Jazz Concert - Waseca-7 p.m., Waseca Art Center, 200 N. State St. A group of like-minded jazz musicians from the Rosemount/Apple Valley area who play their own arrangements of jazz and other standards. Winter Comedy Show Faribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Join for a special night of comedy, featuring a unique blend of some of the best and most original headliners the Twin Cities has to offer. Hosted by Drew Hehir. Ghost - Northfield-- 7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. An afterimage, a memory, a remnant, a sheet with three holes in it. Haunting and at times deeply humorous, Ghost is Virginia Twins’ latest spooky production featuring dance, live sound, and physical storytelling for all ages. As the year begins and the light starts filtering in, what are the ghosts telling you? Shows 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20 and 2 p.m. Jan. 21. Tickets online.

Comedy Night Kasota-8 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Enjoy some hilarious standup comedy. Be sure to come hungry because S&B BBQ will be onsite with food for purchase. Tickets online. Cole Diamond - Elko New Market-- 8 p.m.-12 a.m., The Doublewide, 421 Saint Joseph St., Elko New Market. Three sets of all the audience’s favorite songs about drinking, cheating, and the Chattahoochee River.

Smokescreen - Waseca-- 9 p.m., Boxcar Bar, 202 W. Elm Ave, Waseca. Playing a variety of rock and country music.

WEDNESDAY, JAN 24

Bold & Cold Sculpture Building - Owatonna-- Central Park Owatonna, 100 E. Main St, Owatonna. Contest runs Jan. 22-27. Part of the Bold & Cold Festival, discover the artist within you by carving out a stunning sculpture from a block of snow measuring 6 feet by 6 feet. This is your chance to showcase your creativity to the world. You will have six days to craft your masterpiece, and on Sunday, the public will vote for their favorite works of art. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unleash your imagination and create something truly extraordinary.

THURSDAY, JAN 25

Full Moon Luminary Snowshoe Hike Faribault-- 6-8 p.m., River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Road, Faribault. Enjoy the full moon with a luminary hike through River Bend. Trails are packed snow, participants are welcome to bring their own snowshoes. Pre-register and purchase tickets online.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

FRIDAY, JAN 26

Melissa Schulz - Kasota-- 6-9 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Enjoy easy-listening music with piano and singing.

Convocation with Professor Francis Fukuyama - Northfield-- 10:50-11:50 a.m., Carleton College, 1 N College St., Northfield. Dr. Fukuyama has written widely on issues in development and international politics. His 1992 book, The End of History and the Last Man, has appeared in over twenty foreign editions. His latest book, Liberalism and Its Discontents, was published in May 2022.

Winterfest Opening Ceremony - St. Peter-- 5 p.m., Minnesota Square Park, 1000 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Bonfire, hot chocolate, s’mores, search for Joe Rolette’s missing paperwork that would have made St. Peter the capital of Minnesota, and the reading of the first Medallion Hunt clue. Free and open to the public. It’s a kids friendly event.

SATURDAY, JAN 27

Wreckless - Waseca-- 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m., Boxcar Bar, 202 W. Elm Ave, Waseca. A variety band comprised of professional musicians with a shared passion for live performance. Our music spans the gap from classic and current rock and country. Since our inception in 2012, we have performed at night clubs, bars, private parties, county fairs, town festivals, city celebrations, and weddings.

Red Dirt Road - Faribault-- 9 p.m., Boxers Grill & Bar, 429 Central Ave. N, Faribault. A sound and light experience that you won’t want to miss. They combine great musicianship, killer harmonies, and an arena style light show that will keep you coming back every time.

SUNDAY, JAN 28

Women’s Clothing from Small to Plus Size Unique Jewelry & Gifts

We carry popular brands including: Democracy, Flying Monkey, KanCan Jen & Co., Grace and Lace, & DownEast

Winter Charm on the Farm - Waseca-- 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca. Horse-drawn carriage rides, snowshoe trails, bird feeder craft, hot chocolate and s’mores, logging camp, snow painting, bonfire, scavenger hunts, cross country ski. Tickets online.

The Jamboyz - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing upbeat music acoustically.

Winter Hours: Thursday 10-7 Bold & Cold Festival - Owatonna-- 12 a.m., Owatonna. The majority of the annual festival’s events take place over the Jan. 26-28 weekend. This celebration has events and activities that are designed to highlight the Minnesota psyche of cold noses and warm hearts. Stay up to date at the “Bold & Cold Winter Festival” Facebook page.

Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-2 Sunday 12-3 324 Cedar N. Ave, Owatonna

THURSDAY, FEB 01

Shop Online at HiddenRoseBoutique.com

Andrea Lyn - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Awardwinning musician, singer and songwriter Andrea Lyn cuts to the chase with thoughtful lyrics and melodies. Her song stories stem from real life and evoke even the most hidden connections.

Charlie Berens - Mankato-- 10 a.m., Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato. Comedian Charlie Berens will be in town as part of his “Good Old Fashioned Tour.” Tickets start at $35 plus applicable fees.

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FRIDAY, FEB 02

ery’s enchanting barrel room. Reserve your table now by calling 612-655-6176.

Mike Filzen Memorial Poker Run - Waseca-- 12 p.m., Waseca American Legion, 700 S. State St. Part of the Sleigh & Cutter festival, enjoy this snowmobile ride. Arrive early to register.

care products. Ramstad lives in Minneapolis and has exhibited artworks widely, including solo exhibitions at Minneapolis Institute of Arts and Rochester Art Center.

New Exhibit - St. Peter-- 1-5 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. The latest work from Charlie Putnam, Jeff Johnson and Mark McLaughlin. Exhibit runs through March 23 during regular Arts Center hours.

WinterMania - St. Peter-- 7 p.m., Nicollet County Fairgrounds, 400 Union St., St. Peter. Come out to see some local professional wrestling. 100% of the profits from this event will be donated to the St. Peter youth wrestling program.

THURSDAY, FEB 08

Polar Plunge - St. Peter-- 12 p.m., Hallett’s Pond, St. Peter. The St. Peter Polar Plunge has raised over $1,283,153 for Special Olympics Minnesota in its 17-year history. Learn more and register at plungemn.org/events/st-peter.

Generation Gap - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Enjoy all the classics from this young and old duo.

SATURDAY, FEB 03

Jeremy Norton Book Talk - Northfield-- 7-8:30 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. Norton will read from his new book “Trauma Sponges: Dispatches from the Scarred Heart of Emergency Response.” Beyond an adrenaline ride or a chronicle of bravura heroics, this unflinching view of a Minneapolis firefighter reveals the significant toll of emergency response.

FRIDAY, FEB 09 Dueling Pianos - Le Center-5:30-10 p.m., Le Center American Legion. The Le Center PTO presents its third annual night out, featuring Sweet Keys Dueling Pianos.

Comedian C. Willi Myles - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Faribault’s favorite comedian C. Willi Myles returns to the Paradise. Known as “America’s everyday comedian,” C. Willi has been combining his quick wit and a great sense of humor to deliver high energy, side-splitting shows for all ages. Truly comedy at its best.

SATURDAY, FEB 10

Winter Walk - St. Peter-- 1 p.m., River’s Edge Hospital & Clinic, 1900 N. Sunrise Drive, St. Peter. Approximately 1 mile around the health care campus. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to meet inside the hospital, using the emergency/main entrance on Sunrise Drive and head out on the walk at 11 a.m. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served. This will be held snow or shine. If temps fall and/or wind chills fall below 0 that day, participants will skip the walk and gather for visiting, cookies and hot chocolate.

Rain Kings - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Live music from an acoustic and electric roots rock band. Family Expedition: Bald Eagles - Henderson-- 10-11 a.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. As Minnesota Bald Eagles start to lay their eggs, we will learn about these large birds of prey. These amazing creatures are found throughout North America, and we have many breeding pairs here in Minnesota. The group will be going outside, so remember to dress for the weather. All ages. Tickets online.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar? Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

SUNDAY, FEB 04 Kaveh Akbar - Northfield-2:30-3:30 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. Poet Kaveh Akbar reads from his debut novel “Martyr!” A newly sober, orphaned son of Iranian immigrants, guided by the voices of artists, poets, and kings, embarks on a remarkable search for a family secret that leads him to a terminally ill painter living out her final days in the Brooklyn Museum.

Bean Bag Tournament - Waseca-- 6 p.m., The Mill Event Center, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. Part of the Sleigh & Cutter Festival. Register teams in advance with The Mill. Enjoy your bags with some food and drinks.

WEDNESDAY, FEB 07 Emmett Ramstad Artist Talk - Northfield-5-6:30 p.m., Carleton College, 1 N College St., Northfield. Emmett Ramstad’s sculpture and participatory work explore body maintenance and the intimate collectivity of public space by modifying the scale and function of familiar

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Valentine’s Date Night - New Prague-6:30-9 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. Indulge in the perfect blend of romance, live music, and exquisite flavors as you and your special someone embark on a magical evening in the heart of our win-

Colby Straka - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Blending influences from John Mayer, The Notorious B.I.G and other millennial wonders, Colby puts together sets of unique acoustic covers and originals.

Elephant in the Room - Owatonna-- 7-11 p.m., American Legion Post 77, St Peter. Timeless rock with a twist, featuring soaring lead vocals and clever humor. Only the group’s second show in Southern Minnesota.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

cocktails and mocktails, delicious appetizers, a dessert silent auction, a gift card grab, and more. Funds raised go to CADA, supporting survivors of abuse and trauma. Tickets online through CADA.

THURSDAY, FEB 15

Owatonna. Based off the popular 1989 film, the action is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions, the play moves toward tragedy in the second act. Directed by Linda Karnauskas. Shows Feb. 23-25.

Johnny Frost and the Heatseekers - Janseville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing seven decades of music.

SATURDAY, FEB 24 Strum Brothers Ukulele Duo - Faribault-- 6-7 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St. E, Faribault. The ukulele duo plays a variety of instruments as well as singing vintage, folk and contemporary songs. Bring your ukulele and they might just let you play along to a couple of tunes. You can also check out ukuleles at the Circulation Desk if you need one.

Sleigh & Cutter - Waseca-- 12 a.m., Waseca. Feb. 24 includes the Vintage (Kruger) Snowmobile Ice Drags starting at noon on Clear Lake; the Vintage Snowmobile Show and Ride starting at 11 a.m. on Clear Lake; and the Better Days Ahead Fireworks Display starting after sunset.

Susan Huehn Book Talk - NorthSteve Buckholz - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame field-- 7-8:30 Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Acoustic p.m., Content guitar music. Bookstore, 314 Division St. SUNDAY, FEB 18 S, Northfield. Huehn will read from her new book “The Widow’s Guide to Becoming a Handyman.” A part grief memoir, part immigrant Sleigh & Cutter - Waseca-- 12 a.m., Waseca. story, and part The week of Feb. 14-18 includes ice sculpting in how-to-guide. This is a story of premature death and emotional front of the public safety building WednesdayFriday; the Toner’s Lake snowmobile ride at 11 wreckage that uses the narrator’s old house as a.m. Saturday; the annual dance 7 p.m. Friday its foundation. at the Waseca VFW; the annual parade at noon Saturday in the downtown; the Kite & Balloon Show 10 a.m. Sunday on Clear Lake; and a snowmobile safety riding course 1 p.m. Sunday on the south end of Lake Elysian.

Trainwreck Duet - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Acoustic piano duo featuring Trent Shaw on guitar and Tim Schommer on piano.

The HELLO Girls - Faribault-- 2 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. The HELLO Girls chronicles the story of America’s first women soldiers in this new musical inspired by history. These intrepid heroines served as bilingual telephone operators on the front lines, helping turn the tide of World War I. Shows 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23, 24, 29 and March 1, 2, plus 2 p.m. Feb. 25 and March 3. Tickets, $14-$20, available online.

The Hobbit - Northfield-- 2 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Bilbo, one of the most conservative of all Hobbits, is asked to leave his large, roomy and very dry home in the ground in order to set off as chief robber in an attempt to recover an important treasure. It’s the last thing that any sensitive Hobbit would want to do, but great benefit eventually results — not only for Bilbo but for all of the Hobbits. Shows 7 p.m. Feb. 23, 24 and March 1, 2, plus 2 p.m. Feb. 25 and March 3.

SUNDAY, FEB 25 Steel Magnolias - Owatonna-- 12 a.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A,

SATURDAY, FEB 17

NEVER MISS AN EVENT Steel Magnolias - Owatonna-- 12 a.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Based off the popular 1989 film, the action is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions, the play moves toward tragedy in the second act. Directed by Linda Karnauskas. Shows Feb. 16-18 and 23-25.

THURSDAY, FEB 22

Galentine’s Day Purse Bingo - St. Peter-- 5 p.m., St. Peter American Legion. Designer purse bingo is back. Join for another night of fun.

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Galentine’s Day - St. Peter-- 6 p.m., The Capitol Room, 419 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. You can look forward to floral crafts, signature

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SoMinn THE BOOKWORM SEZ

TERRI SCHILCHENMEYER Terri Schlichenmeyer is a book reviewer based just across the river from SoMinn in LaCrosse, WI. She can be contacted at bookwormsez@gmail.com

‘My Name is Barbra,’ ‘The Kingdom of Sweets’ and more My Name is Barbra

The Kingdom of Sweets

by Barbra Streisand c.2023, Viking $47.00 970 pages

by Erika Johansen c.2023, Dutton $28.00 368 pages

You spent hours online and on the phone, trying to get tickets. There was no way you were gonna miss this performance. You’ve loved her since forever, maybe longer, and every minute spent in a virtual line will be worth it to see her live. People who know you are surprised; they’d expect this kind of behavior for a modern-day star but no. If they read “My Name is Barbra” by Barbra Streisand, they’d understand. She almost needs no introduction now. And yet, Streisand struggled for most of her childhood to get the attention she craved. She was her parents’ second child but she barely knew her father; he died when she was a toddler and she always wondered what might’ve been, had he lived. She had a rough relationship with her mother, in part because Streisand wanted demonstrations of love that her mother couldn’t give, and in part because of her stepfather, who once called Streisand “ugly.” If any of this led to her dramatic flair as a child, who would blame her? If it did, she turned it into something good. She acted as her own clothing designer, attended acting classes in Manhattan as a teenager and worked as a singer at a nightclub for awhile before making a minor splash. She hustled, appearing on TV for the first time in the spring of 1961, which led to more club appearances, then a part in “a major Broadway show” before her star went stratospheric and the rest is show-biz history. The first good news about “My Name is Barbra” is that it’s eminently readable. It’s written in a conversational tone that feels right and not forced, with a good deal of name-dropping that’s mostly relevant, not overly gratuitous or stiflingly excessive. Author Barbra Streisand deals quite openly with rumors that have plagued her for decades – including “The Streisand Effect” and acceptance of her nose – and she does it with surprising candidness that readers will embrace. She’s a perfectionist, not a diva, as she seems to stress, and so the latter peeks out very rarely and what little bragging is in here is justified. In short, in the category of celebrity-autobio, this book is different, in a good way. Fans will find other reasons to love it. Streisand dishes, not just on herself but on her leading men, former husbands, writers, directors, co-stars, haters in the industries, and people who displeased her and found themselves suddenly on the outside of the inner-circle. She writes about her activism. Streisand openly includes bits of reviews that would hurt a lesser mortal, but she seems to laugh those critics off. Best of all, she drops tiny breadcrumbs about her life here and there for fans to root out. That minutiae might as well have been gold. Though this almost-1000-page book could have been cut by a quarter and not have suffered in the least, it’s worth hauling home. For any fan, old or new, “My Name is Barbra” is a book you’ll be happy to spend hours with.

Ugh, now you’ve done it. You ate too much. And yet, there’s still room for chocolate, caramel, marzipan, cookies, cake, candied almonds, or peppermints. Seriously, when was the last time you turned down something gooey and frosted because you were “full”? As in the new novel “The Kingdom of Sweets” by Erika Johansen, some things are beyond tempting. Anastasia, the cook, knew it. Everyone, it seemed, knew that Natasha Stahlbaum was in love with Conrad, the son of a minor aristocrat. They all knew it, just as they knew that Conrad would never love Natasha because she was cursed. She was not born that way. No, Natasha and her twin, Clara, were born just after midnight on Christmas Eve, and everyone proclaimed how lucky it was. But when Drosselmeyer, who was said to be a magician, was named as the girls’ godfather, he arrived at the christening, looked at the babes in their cribs and said two words. “Light,” he’d uttered to Clara, who then floated through life, beloved, charming, and beautiful with long golden curls framing a sweet face. Clara danced the ballet, and collected dolls and boyfriends “Dark,” he’d whispered to Natasha, pragmatic, plain, bookish Natasha, a careful, no nonsense observer who desperately loved Conrad, but who would never have him and everyone knew it. Natasha, who would be betrayed by her sister on the eve of their seventeenth birthday, in a most devastating way. The twins’ parents had arranged the betrayal. Conrad’s parents approved it. Drosselmeyer had paid for it. And to seal the deal, he brought gifts to his goddaughters: a nutcracker for Clara and a clown doll for Natasha. And then he told Natasha that she wouldn’t suffer for long. As the embers of the Christmas Eve fire cooled in the hearth, Natasha heard her clown doll’s evil giggles and she began to think, hard, about the strength of. Drosselmeyer’s magic. With swirling shadows surrounding her, she picked up Clara’s nutcracker – a toy she’d been warned to avoid – and she stepped into a land of candy... Snowflakes and presents and twinkly lights: those are just some of your Favorite Things. Get “The Kingdom of Sweets,” and you’ll want to add that, too. With a shivery nod to Tchaikovsky, The Brothers Grimm, and Stephen King, author Erika Johansen beckons readers to join her in a picturesque latenineteenth-century European village filled with Christmas, shadows, and magic but, of course, nothing is as it seems. Indeed, from the outset, the very presence of Drosselmeyer – who shows up on the first page of this story – should make you uneasy. He’s no benevolent godfather, and he gets worse. For awhile. But then again – Natasha isn’t all sugarplums, either. Johansen makes her a very sympathetic character but, well, you’re going to have to read the book now, aren’t you? Just know that it’s a gift best left unwrapped, unless you love tales of darkness and magic, or you want to be scared positively witless. Start “The Kingdom of Sweets” because you can never read too much.

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The Lost Tomb and Other A Very Inconvenient Real-Life Stories of Bones, Scandal Burials, and Murder by Jacqueline Mitchard by Douglas Preston c.2023, Grand Central $30.00 320 pages

It was a dinosaur bone. Not really but it was fun thinking that it was, even for awhile. You were just seven years old then, and the truth (it was a simple rock) didn’t deter you from digging some more. It never stopped you from dreaming of ancient treasure or the rarest of relics. It shouldn’t keep you from enjoying those feelings again in “The Lost Tomb” by Douglas Preston. Does that name sound familiar? It might: Preston is a best-selling co-novelist of history-based thrillers but his fans may be surprised to learn that he’s also a journalist who loves a good fact-based adventure. Digging for a story, for Preston, is almost as much fun as digging in the dirt, and this collection of his articles shows it. He begins with a tale of murder that was a little close to home: an old friend, someone Preston had lost touch with, was killed years after their last contact. Unearthing the guy’s name online, says Preston, “was not knowledge as power; it was knowledge as sorrow.” In 2006, he wrote about The Monster of Florence, a killer who viciously mutilated some of his victims. Preston was so fascinated with the crime that he befriended an “expert on the case,” and eventually collaborated on a truecrime book with the man but too much digging got the expert arrested and Preston ousted from Italy. He wrote in 2020 about an archaeological mystery, and dozens of skeletal remains in a lake in the Himalayas. A year later, he wrote an article about another mystery that happened in Russia more than six decades ago and he believes that there’s finally a solution to what happened – although the latest answer is still controversial. In two different stories, Preston tackles the issues of skeletal remains found in America, the laws regarding their return to Native tribes, and why there’s argument about the subject. He writes of Oak Island, and the possibilities of treasure. He visited a very exciting major archaeological site near the nation’s heartland. And he writes about victims of archaeological fraud and targets of internet harassment. So you say you really dig reading about ancient history, true crime, real-life mysteries, and, well, digging? Put down your shovel, then, because you’ll want to use your hands to carry “The Lost Tomb” around with you awhile. Fans of author Douglas Preston’s co-written thrillers may wonder sometimes where he gets his ideas, and this book offers clues. Much like a good novel, in fact, the completely absorbing tales here will make you feel like you’re treasurehunting with Indiana Jones or working a whodunit with Sherlock Holmes. But fear not: this book is nothing but authentic, as Preston relies on science to explain his works in both crime-solving and archaeology, thus speaking to a reader’s intelligence. Admit it: that’s pretty fun stuff. If you spent your childhood searching for “fossils” or if you’d love that kind of adventure as an adult now, you want “The Lost Tomb.” Make no bones about it, this is your book.

c.2023, Mira $30.00 336 pages You can’t control your parents. If you didn’t have that figured out when you were five years old, or sixteen, you surely know it now. You can’t tell them what to do. You can’t make them follow your directions. You can’t even give them advice. And as in the new book “A Very Inconvenient Scandal” by Jacqueline Mitchard, they’d say the same thing about you. Frankie Attleboro wasn’t just angry. She was livid. She’d planned on telling her father, Mack, and her brother, Penn, the good news later. Her fiance, Gil, should’ve been the first to know that Frankie was due to have a baby shortly after their fall wedding but somehow, her news got revealed, twisted, and lost in the midst of her father’s urgent text and his selfishness. Hurrying home to Cape Cod, Frankie feared the worst – and she found it: rushing to her father’s house, she found him in bed with her former best friend, Ariel Puck, who was very pregnant. Never mind that Frankie’s mother had been dead barely a year. Never mind that Mack was old enough to be Ariel’s father. Never mind Frankie’s news, which was forgotten as Mack and Ariel made plans for their own wedding the following weekend. Frankie couldn’t get over her feelings of betrayal. Her mother had practically raised Ariel after Ariel’s mother abandoned her, and Frankie had supported her new mother-in-law for all of high school. All for this? She was angry, hurt, and yes, jealous. Despite that Frankie hated to see it, the wedding of the new Mr. and Mrs. Mack Attleboro went off without a hitch – almost. But then a surprise guest showed up at the reception and what was she doing there? Everyone gasped. Everyone gaped. Half the guests didn’t recognize her but indeed, in all her splendor stood Carlotta Puck, gone for a decade, presumed dead, but very much alive... Let’s start here: there’s a lot of mean-girling going on in “A Very Inconvenient Scandal” and you may have to fight not to roll your eyes or ask the main characters – two young women, both mothers-to-be – if they would please just grow up. Mean-girling leads to drama, the kind you sigh over, and when you think the whole kettle is full to the brim with it, author Jacqueline Mitchard tosses another person into the soup. Curiously, happily, this character makes all the difference in the world, in that she takes the focus off the tiresome adolescent activity and inserts the kind of nastiness a reader can really sink her teeth into. The character is twisty and cunning but not entirely hate-able; in fact, you may adore her just because she’s so bad. That, plus Mitchard’s propensity toward multiple clever turns-of-phrase on each page turns an immature temper-tantrum story into a pretty good tale of villainy. If you’re not already a Mitchard fan, this probably isn’t the book to begin with. If you are, though, here’s what you’ve been waiting for. Grab “A Very inconvenient Scandal” and lose control of your time.

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